Chapter Five: The Cheapest Life

Henian sat straighter. Bai Yi read through the appendices, his expression darkening. The old covenant worshiped language, and language could bite its maker. “You have a token now,” Zhou Ye said. “You could remove any of us.” “Then don't thank me yet.” Chenzhou turned to Gu Yan. “Lend us your lawyer for five minutes.” Chen Shao retreated. Wanqing closed the doors. Jingming took the briefcase with the careful pressure of a lawyer who knew how not to leave evidence of force. “These documents concern a succession proceeding currently under public scrutiny. You may refuse disclosure, Counsel, but your refusal will be recorded.” Sweat appeared on Chen Shao's forehead. At last, he let go.